ZINC REFINING INDUSTRY

Dominion, Volume 10, Issue 2960, 26 December 1916, Page 8

ZINC REFINING INDUSTRY

The Japanese Government lias commenced investigations into the future of zinc mining and the refining industry in Japan, and already a fairly good result has been obtained (states the "Japan Times"). . According to a report to hand the motive of the authorities in taking this step is to de.yiso, an effective. means for the prevention of a reaction to the present boom in this line of business after tho war. At present the average annual production, of zinc ores in Japan is 30,000 tons to 40,00(f tons, and in normal times sufficiently covers the total consumption of this oountry. Therefore, last year's total volume of import amounted only to 27,000 tons, even though the' sale of refined goods witnessed a great increase. 1 ■ This year, however, every indication points to the fact that the' total consumption of ores will roach 300,000 tons by the end of the year, as many undertakings have been newly started and old ones have been enlarged in view of the ever-increasing prosperity in -tho line under the war's direct influences. This increase in consumption is evidently made good from the imports from Australia, Burmah, China, and other countries in the East. It is obvious, however, that tho products thus so remarkably increased cannot be disposed of in Japan alone after tho war. It is also clear that after the cessation of hostilities in Europe the demand from overseas will also decline, owing to the' resumption of business hy_ European manufacturers. Accordingly it becomes an urgent question for zino miners .and smelters how the increased production should be disposed of. The Government is apparently disposed to advise millers and smelters to make their overseas market seouro by some means before the'war is brought to an end.